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Scrub off dry, flaky skin with our list of the best exfoliating body washes and get smooth, healthy skin. Our skin sheds its old cells regularly to replace them with new ones. However, these cells can accumulate and block pores and cause skin issues if not cleaned properly. An exfoliating body wash helps clear the dead skin cells, moisturizes, and hydrates your skin, leaving it smooth, soft, and healthy.
With different products available, choosing the right body wash for your skin type with proven efficacy may be challenging. Browse through our list to make an informed decision.
Top Picks
16 Best Exfoliating Body Washes Of 2024
1. Best Natural Fragrance:OGX Sea Kelp & Hyaluronic Acid Body Scrub
OGX scrub is a medium-scrub liquid body soap that foams into a thick lather and rinses clean to leave the skin soft. It contains a blend of natural ingredients such as black rice, sea kelp, and hyaluronic acid, which exfoliate, moisturize, soften, and plump the skin. The purifying body scrub gently exfoliates and moisturizes the skin for extended periods. This video review showcases a tester’s experience of this natural exfoliating body wash.
Pros
- No sulfates
- Suits all skin types
- Natural fragrance
- Silky texture
- Creates a creamy lather
Cons
- The smell might be bothersome
"I'm a long-time Ogx fan, and this body wash didn't disappoint. It leaves my skin feeling exfoliated, refreshed, and incredibly soft. I love the tropical scent, which is not overpowering but subtle and clean. While the tiny beads require caution near my eyes, the wash offers a gentle cleanse—a definite repurchase."
Quick tip2. Best Fruity Fragrance:Amazon Brand – Solimo Clarifying Pink Grapefruit Body Wash
Amazon’s Solimo body wash contains two percent salicylic acid, which aids in acne treatmentand prevents body breakouts. In addition, this body wash’s gelatin beads gently exfoliate the skin. The aromatic body scrub is dermatologist-tested and contains no harmful ingredients.
Pros
- Not tested on animals
- Parabens- and phthalate-free
- Hydrates the skin
- Fruity fragrance
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Might take some time to show results
"This quality body wash has a very distinctive refreshing aroma, which eliminates the need to wear perfume. It creates a rich lather that is easy to spread all over the body. Although a bit light on the scrubbing beads, it's proven to be very effective."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 945 good reviews on Amazon.
3. Best For Dry Skin: Anthony Exfoliating Body Scrub
The sea salt-infused Anthony Exfoliating Body scrub melts into the pores to remove the gunk and dead skin. Potent and cleansing ingredients such as nutmeg, sea kelp, and vitamin C make the scrub suitable for rough-skinned areas like the elbows and knees. This physical scrub can help keep acne, ingrown hair, dry flakes, and rough patches at bay. In addition, you can also use the scrub as a pre-shave treatment, as its lotion-like qualities lift and soften body hair.
Pros
- Free of toxic chemicals
- Dermatologist-tested formula
- Allergy-tested
- Has the soothing effects of aloe vera
Cons
- Some might find the fragrance overpowering
- Pump may get clogged after sometime
"I've been using this exfoliating body scrub for a while and love its fresh beach-like scent. While the pump sometimes jams, it still makes for a refreshing wash, which leaves my skin feeling clean, soft, and moisturized."
OGX Sea Kelp & Hyaluronic Acid Body Scrub Best Natural Fragrance | Amazon Brand - Solimo Clarifying Pink Grapefruit Body Wash Best Fruity Fragrance | Anthony Exfoliating Body Scrub Best For Dry Skin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All | All, Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Normal |
| Dimensions | 2.14 x 3.5 x 8.59 inches | 2.43 x 1.5 x 7.27 inches | - |
| Weight | 1.32 Pounds. | 10.55 Ounces. | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 8,793 | 945 | 82 |
| Price | $5.99 | $4.95 | $18 |
4. Best Soothing Fragrance:Softsoap Exfoliating Body Wash
Softsoap body wash uses crushed apricot seeds, jojoba butter, and crushed coconut extracts to exfoliate the skin while retaining its natural hydration. These biodegradable ingredients help to maintain the skin’s pH balance. The body wash exfoliates and nourishes your skin from within, removing impurities, blackheads, and dead skin cells that can cause acne. Check out the tester’s experience in this video review for a better understanding of this product.
Pros
- Made from natural ingredients
- Soothing fragrance
- Can be used every day
- Improves skin texture
Cons
- Not suitable if you dislike coconut fragrance
"I've stuck with Softsoap Body Wash for years, loving its gentle exfoliation and skin-friendly formula. The soap's scent is delightful, and a small amount lathers generously. It leaves my skin gently exfoliated, moisturized, and fragrant. While the pump struggles a bit due to the soap's viscosity, its effectiveness makes it a reliable choice."
5. Best Fragrance-Free: Naturium Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash
Naturium’s glycolic acid-containing exfoliating body wash is a fragrance-free formula that is gentle on the skin and suitable for daily use and all skin types. This exfoliator gently fixes texture and bumpy skin to reveal the soft and smooth skin underneath. Its formula contains a mix of natural and synthetic ingredients such as glycolic, pyruvic, tartaric, lactic acids, and red algae to remove dead skin cells and keep the skin hydrated.
Pros
- Biocompatible formula
- Paraben-free
- Vegan-friendly
- Easy-to-use pump bottle
- Can be used as a face cleanser
Cons
- May leave an oily residue
- Might not lather well
"This product is my favorite as it requires minimal scrubbing and is very gentle on the skin. It has noticeably softened and hydrated my dehydrated skin. All in all, this product has found a permanent place in my shower caddy."
6. Best For Everyday Use:Proactiv Deep Cleansing Acne Body Wash
The celebrity-endorsed brand Proactiv offers a body wash containing smooth exfoliating beads to remove dead skin cells. The proprietary formula includes two percent salicylic acid to unclog pores and reduce oiliness. As a result, the skin is cleansed from head to toe and protects against future breakouts. In addition, the deep cleansing body wash and physical exfoliant contains vitamin-E-enriched exfoliating beads that softly burst to make your skin smooth and soft.
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Good for everyday use
- Suits most skin types
- Unscented
Cons
- Might dry out the skin
"I have been using this Proactiv Deep Cleansing Acne Body Wash for a couple of years, and it successfully keeps my body clean, tackles stubborn pimples, and even helps me cope with hormonal breakouts. While It can be tricky to dispense due to its thick consistency, its effectiveness trumps this minor inconvenience."
Point to consider7. Best Cruelty-Free:First Botany ALL Natural Tea Tree Body Wash Shower Gel
First Botany’s all-natural shower gel contains a high concentration of eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, and aloe vera extracts. It fights fungal infections and bacteria while soothing dry, itchy skin. The exfoliating and hydrating body wash cleanses, moisturizes, and deodorizes the skin. It contains therapeutic and anti-inflammatory properties. The soothing exfoliating shower gel is beneficial for those who are physically active, such as athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Removes body odor
- Suitable for both men and women
- Parabens-, sulfates-, and alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- The scent might be strong
"Its vibrant eucalyptus tea tree scent may be strong for some, but it appeals to me. It makes the body feel extremely clean, even combating body odor. The lather is pleasantly soft and has improved my skin's texture and hydration levels. Overall, it's become my summer favorite."
8. Best Paraben-Free:Dove Body Wash
The expert-recommended exfoliating body wash from Dove is mild and pH-balanced. It is made from skin-friendly, plant-based moisturizers and sea nutrients. This fragrance-infused exfoliating shower is safe to use on dry skin because it does not harm or deplete its natural oils. Its mild formula lathers into a nourishing foam, revealing smoother skin. It also functions as a hand wash. The results-driven nourishing body exfoliator is packaged in a 100% recyclable bottle.
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfates- and paraben-free
- Effective in removing bacteria
- Mild fragrance
Cons
- Might not be as effective since it lacks exfoliation beads
"I find the scent of this Dove product incredibly comforting. Besides, it makes my skin feel rejuvenated, something I haven't experienced with different soaps. Hence, I plan on sticking to this soap variant by a trustworthy brand."
9. Best For All-Skin-Types:O.R.G Body Scrub & Deep Gel Exfoliator
O.R.G Skincare’s gel-based exfoliating body scrub contains grapefruit seed, aloe leaf, and artemisia extracts, making it suitable for all skin types. This smoothing shower gel exfoliator is infused with organic enzymes that gently remove ingrown hairs and prevent uneven tanning. The non-abrasive formula also doubles as a body shaving cream, providing a close and smooth shaving experience.
Pros
- Can be used for manicures and pedicures
- Alcohol-, paraben-, and sulfate-free formula
- Not tested on animals
- Dissolves dead skin
Cons
- Some may find the exfoliation to be light
- Might have a watery consistency
"Discovering the ORG Body Scrub was a definite plus for my skincare journey. It's an easy-to-use and effective exfoliant spray that works wonders on my combination skin. Besides making my pores less noticeable, it even made my skin feel smoother. All in all, it's been a magical addition to my bathtime routine."
10. Best For Sensitive Skin:St. Ives Purifying Sea Salt & Pacific Kelp Exfoliating Body Wash
St. Ives exfoliating body wash is made entirely of natural sea kelp and sea salt extracts. The sea salt extract, derived from the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans, aids in removing dead skin, while sea kelp, a type of algae rich in antioxidants, keeps the skin soft and hydrated. The ingredients include a walnut shell. This antioxidant-rich body cleanser is suitable for daily use.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologically tested
- Parabens-free
- Useful for sensitive skin
- 100% organic extracts
Cons
- Slightly strong fragrance
"This body wash has a light and pleasant, spa-like scent, and the tiny exfoliating grains did an impressive job, leaving my skin noticeably softer after only one use. It even kept my skin hydrated during winter months and made me feel refreshed after every shower."
Quick tip11. Best Soap-Free:Aveeno Positively Radiant Exfoliating Body Wash
Positively Radiant is a skincare line designed to address five factors — dullness, tone, blotchiness, texture, and brown spots, leaving the skin healthy and radiant. The radiance-boosting body cleanser contains crushed walnut shell and natural micro exfoliants to remove dry, dull skin. In addition, moisture-rich soy-complexes and natural light diffusers improve the skin’s natural brightness. This gentle exfoliating shower gel, offered by a dermatologist-recommended brand is suitable for everyday use and gentle on sensitive skin.
Pros
- Dye-free
- Soap-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Microbead-free body scrub
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Not suitable for those allergic to soy
"The Aveeno body wash is gentle on my skin and gives a light exfoliation without causing redness or drying. I even use this mild cleanser on my face too, and the refreshing subtle scent is a plus. It's now a beloved part of my daily skincare routine."
12. Best Fragrance-Free:Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash
The glycolic acid-based body wash reduces rough bumps, exfoliates dead skin cells, and evens out skin tone. Its thick lather cleanses thoroughly, leaving skin smooth and fresh. To use, squeeze the body wash onto a wet cloth and massage thoroughly, paying particular attention to rough areas.
Pros
- Can be used daily
- Suitable for dry to normal skin
- Oil-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
Cons
- Might have a strong scent
"I have been using this exfoliating body wash for a while, and I'm quite happy with the improvements. While it can be slightly drying, applying a good moisturizer solves that. Love the mild scent. I've found my skin looking healthier. I would recommend it!"
13. Best With Coconut Oil:OGX Coffee & Coconut Scrub And Wash
Infused with the richness of coconut oil and exotic arabica coffee, the results-driven invigorating body scrub from OGX exfoliates as well as moisturizes the skin. You can generously massage this effective body wash over wet skin and scrub the required areas to get that silky-smooth skin. Moreover, this professional-grade hydrating exfoliator scrub is suitable for everyday use.
Pros
- Natural fragrance
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some may not like its fragrance
- Might not be thick enough
"The delightful blend of coconut and coffee has made this body wash my favorite. It lathers well and leaves the skin feeling refreshed and gently exfoliated, all without stripping it dry. All in all, it makes my skin feel silky smooth, making it a worthwhile purchase."
14. Best Sulfate-Free:Shea Moisture Papaya and Vitamin C, Revive & Brighten Body Wash
SheaMoisture’s revive and brighten body wash contains brightening papaya and the active ingredient vitamin C, making it a perfect exfoliating body wash for dull, uneven skin. This brightening body wash and gentle skin cleanser with papaya enzymes, yuzu lemon, and vitamin C eliminates dirt without removing moisture from the skin. It is suitable for daily use and promotes skin turnover, resulting in smoother, healthier skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Parabens-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalates-free
Cons
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin type
"The product has worked wonders for my skin, especially underarm discoloration. While its pleasant smell and remarkable brightening effects are noteworthy, its texture could be improved. However, it creates a rich lather, moisturizes, and delivers a noticeable glow."
15. Best Preservative-Free:Sanitas Skincare Active Body Wash
This renewing body exfoliant promotes skin rejuvenation by removing dead skin cells. Plant extracts and alpha hydroxy acids in this body wash can keep pores clear, provide blemish-free skin, and smoothen uneven texture. Glycolic acid is a natural exfoliant that brightens the skin, promotes skin renewal, and combats inherent and external causes of aging. Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer, while glycerine keeps the skin from drying out.
Pros
- Ideal for mature skin
- Parabens-free
- Cruelty-free
- Phthalates-free
- Dyes- and preservative-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- May increases skin’s sensitivity to the sun
"The performance of the Sanitas body wash as an exfoliating scrub has been spot-on. With just a dime-sized amount, this body wash thoroughly cleanses my body and makes me feel rejuvenated after my bath."
16. Best Dye-Free:Olay Exfoliating & Revitalizing Body Wash
The citrus-scented body cleanser by the celebrity-endorsed brand Olay is made with Himalayan salt and grapefruit that gently removes dead skin cells. It is ideal for daily use. This product contains vitamin B3 complex, which cleanses and nourishes the skin, leaving it radiant and healthy. The refreshing, results-driven exfoliating body wash rinses cleanly, leaving no greasy and oily residue. It revitalizes and hydrates the skin for a long-lasting moisturizing effect.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil- and dye-free
Cons
- May have a strong fragrance
"This wash is quite aromatic but not overpowering. It leaves my skin silky smooth and seems like an effective solution to tackle dry winters with the intense moisturization it provides. The pump bottle is handy, and the enriching formula has also reduced the occurrence of ingrown hairs."
How To Choose The Right Exfoliating Body Wash?
Consider the following factors before choosing the right body wash.
- Skin condition: Exfoliators should be avoided by people with sensitive and acne-prone skin because they may aggravate the problem. Consider products containing less than two percent of salicylic and glycolic acids, as these active ingredients can gently eliminate body acne.
- Fragrance: Body washes with natural fragrances or essential oil blends are preferable over synthetic fragrances.
- Natural Ingredients: Look for a body wash with clinically proven natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin and do not cause damage or irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How frequently should I exfoliate?
Experts recommend exfoliating two to three times per week, depending on your skin’s tolerance.
2. Will exfoliating remove acne marks?
Exfoliation will not entirely remove scars, but it will help with mild acne scarring by renewing the skin.
3. Can I use an exfoliating body wash on my face?
The skin on the face is different from the skin on the body. Therefore, exfoliation is required in both areas, but the same product is unlikely to be effective in both.
4. Is exfoliating body wash good for my skin?
Yes, a skin-friendly exfoliating body wash can help remove dead skin cells, make the skin soft and supple, reduce the signs of aging, and improve skin tone (1)
5. Can I use an exfoliating body wash every day?
No, it is not advisable to use an exfoliating body wash every day, as it can leave your skin dry and irritated.
6. Are exfoliating body washes good for dry skin?
Skin-safe exfoliating body washes that are pH-balanced, mild, free of harsh chemicals, and infused with skin-softening agents like glycolic acid can be beneficial for dry skin.
7. Should I exfoliate before or after showering?
In general, exfoliating after showering helps get rid of the impurities from your skin at a deeper level.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is a highly skilled and well-experienced writer specializing in beauty and personal care products. She has gone through several product specifications and analyzed several customer reviews to bring you an informative list of the best exfoliating body washes. Poulami’s review of these body washes and her expert tips are your perfect guide to finding the right exfoliating body wash. The options on this list are made of safe ingredients and have moisturizing and hydrating properties.
Infographic: How To Choose The Right Exfoliating Body Wash?
Exfoliating body washes provide a refreshing and invigorating cleansing experience, effectively removing dead skin cells for smoother, healthier-looking skin. However, it is crucial to select the right wash to avoid allergic reactions and skin issues. Refer to the infographic below to learn about the factors to consider while selecting the perfect exfoliating body wash.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Skin Care With Herbal Exfoliants
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/224892687_Skin_Care_with_Herbal_Exfoliants
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